From flexibility to increased strength to heart health, we have numerous benefits to rolling out the yoga mat.
Are you a passionate yoga practitioner? Then probably, you’ve already noticed some yoga benefits—maybe you’re getting fewer colds or sleeping better or just feeling more relaxed and at ease. But if you’ve ever tried telling a newbie about the benefits of yoga, you might find that they fall on deaf or sceptical ears.
1. Improves your flexibility
One of the first and most obvious benefits of yoga is improved flexibility. During your first class, you may not be able to touch your toes. But if you stick around, you’ll notice a gradual loosening, and eventually, seemingly impossible poses will become possible. You’ll also notice that pains and art to disappear. That’s no coincidence. Tight hamstrings can lead to a flattening of the lumbar spine, which can cause back pain. Tight hips can strain the knee joint due to improper alignment of the thigh and shinbones. And inflexibility in muscles and connective tissue, such as fascia and ligaments, can cause poor posture.
2. Builds muscle strength
Strong muscles do more than just look good. They protect us from conditions like arthritis and back pain and help prevent falls in elderly people. And, you balance the strength with flexibility. If you just went to the gym and lifted weights, you might build strength at the expense of flexibility.
3. Perfects your posture
Your head is like a bowling ball—big, round, and heavy. When it’s balanced directly over an erect spine, it takes much less work for your neck and back muscles to support it. However, move it several inches forward, and you start to strain those muscles. Hold up that forward-leaning bowling ball for eight to 12 hours a day and it’s no wonder you’re tired. Moreover, fatigue may not be your only problem. Poor posture can cause neck, back, and other muscle and joint problems. As you slump, your body may compensate by flattening the normal inward curves in your neck and lower back. This can cause degenerative arthritis of the spine.
